Podcast appearances and mentions of david dewolf

  • 31PODCASTS
  • 111EPISODES
  • 32mAVG DURATION
  • 1WEEKLY EPISODE
  • May 19, 2025LATEST

POPULARITY

20172018201920202021202220232024


Best podcasts about david dewolf

Latest podcast episodes about david dewolf

AI Knowhow
Is Every Company Now an AI Company?

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 34:05


The buzz is deafening—every company is now an AI company...or are they? Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao to unpack whether the AI revolution is as widespread as the hype suggests. They explore what it really means to be an “AI company,” why adoption is uneven across industries, and how leaders can move beyond experimentation toward meaningful AI integration. Pete Buer sits down with Max Gabriel, CEO of Augmented AI, in the first of a two-part interview exploring why AI is poised to disrupt the software world. Max breaks down how the rise of AI agents signals a seismic shift in the SaaS model, what vertical AI solutions mean for enterprise strategy, and why organizations must rethink their technology stack from the ground up. In our ‘AI in the Wild' segment, Pete and Mohan discuss Apple's revelation that Google searches on Safari have declined for the first time in 20 years—a signal that AI-powered search tools may be eroding Google's long-held dominance. What does this mean for how businesses approach marketing, SEO, and information discovery? Also, don't miss Courtney and Pete's upcoming webinar on May 22nd at noon Eastern: “Master Client Success with AI.” Learn how professional services firms can implement AI-powered client management systems to drive retention and growth. Register now at knownwell.com/masterclientsuccess. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0h9TXvdKZPc 

The Professional Services Pursuit
Ep. 92 - Operationalizing AI: Beyond the Buzz w/ David DeWolf

The Professional Services Pursuit

Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 32:42


In this episode, Banoo sits down with David DeWolf, President and CEO of Knownwell, to talk about what it really takes to move from AI experimentation to AI-powered transformation. With 75% of firms now supporting GenAI (per the 2025 SPI Maturity Benchmark report), the question isn't if—it's how you adopt it in a way that drives real results.David shares battle-tested insights and how Knownwell is helping service firms operationalize AI to strengthen relationships, prevent churn, and work smarter at every level. Here's what you'll learn:Why every relationship-driven firm needs a rock-solid operating model before layering on AI.How AI becomes your “Iron Man suit”—amplifying consultants with real-time sentiment and risk detection.Why the future of insight is natural information, not rigid data models.How businesses of the future will improve retention and growth over time.The winning formula: empower individuals from the ground up while transforming your operating model from the top down.Want more insights from David? Discover Knownwell and check out his podcast, AI knowhow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI Knowhow
Working with AI: Why Security is a Must

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 17:53


AI adoption hinges on one thing: trust. But how do you build it—and more importantly, how do you keep it from breaking? In this episode of AI Knowhow, CMO Courtney Baker teams up with CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product & Technology Officer Mohan Rao to unpack the critical security questions every organization should be asking before deploying AI. They break down the evolving attack surface of AI systems—from prompt injection and data poisoning to model inversion - and explain how to evaluate vendors for their trustworthiness and preparedness. Mohan shares a practical checklist for non-technical leaders to vet AI platforms, and David highlights the new responsibilities facing leadership in this AI-first era. Pete Buer kicks things off with AI in the Wild, where he explores Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff's provocative claim that today's CEOs may be the last to lead fully human workforces. With 84% of customer service requests already resolved by AI agents at Salesforce, Pete lays out what this shift means for how companies scale, innovate, and think strategically. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4czftF3dhig  Sign up for Knownwell: www.knownwell.com 

AI Knowhow
Working with AI: How Intelligence Can Make Client Churn a Thing of the Past

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 32:42


Is it really possible to eliminate client churn in professional services? Knownwell's CMO Courtney Baker, CEO David DeWolf, and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao dive deep into the myths surrounding unavoidable churn and why too many companies accept it as inevitable. They challenge this mindset, exploring how AI-driven insights can shift businesses from resignation to proactive client retention strategies. Special guest Peter Kang, co-founder of Barrel Holdings, joins Pete Buer for a revealing conversation about "silent churn" — when clients slip away without warning. Kang shares how systems thinking, deeper client engagement, and recognizing early warning signs are key to building resilient agency relationships. And why when you start to hear, "All is good" over and over, alarm bells should start going off in your head.  In "AI in the Wild," Pete Buer breaks down new research from the Pew Research Center highlighting the gap between public and expert perceptions of AI's future — and what it means for businesses today. Ready to rethink your churn strategy? Visit www.knownwell.com to see how Knownwell's AI platform can help you keep more of the clients you've already earned. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_KKLpnZsU0o 

AI Knowhow
Working with AI: Striking a Balance Between AI and Humans

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 30:52


As AI becomes more integrated into everyday business and personal life, the biggest question leaders face is: when should we rely on AI and when must the human touch prevail? In this episode, Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker joins CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao to explore the fine line between AI augmentation and human intuition. The team uses a recent LinkedIn post from Ethan Mollick as a leaping off point to unpack how leaders can responsibly scale with AI while keeping people empowered, not replaced. In the post, Mollick shares the results of a recent study that shows students who use AI as a tutor benefit from it, whereas those who use AI to do their work for them end up faring worse on standardized tests. Special guest Richard Lin, CEO of Anyreach.ai, speaks with Pete Buer about how AI voice agents are transforming customer service and sales. Lin reveals how cloning the “top 1%” of reps isn't about replacement, but about elevating consistent performance while keeping humans in the loop to label, train, and improve AI systems. In our news segment, Pete dives into the fascinating world of AI therapists. A recent study shows that bots can actually help patients with anxiety and depression, raising the provocative question: are people more honest with machines than humans? See how Knownwell's platform empowers your team with actionable insights. Visit Knownwell.com.  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
Join Courtney and David LIVE on April 15th!

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 1:13


The flowers are blooming, the pollen is popping, and Courtney's wondering why corporate spring break isn't a thing (seriously though). While the AI Knowhow Team hits pause on the regular lineup, they're gearing up for something fresh, live, and full of Knownwell goodness. On April 15th, Courtney Baker and David DeWolf are going live on LinkedIn to peel back the curtain on what's new at Knownwell. If you're a professional services leader - or just someone who wants to ditch the guesswork and start driving business with data - this is your backstage pass to see how our native AI platform is evolving. To register, make sure to visit https://www.linkedin.com/events/7313305362961453125/. 

AI Knowhow
The AI Hackathon Playbook

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 33:51


Want to unlock AI's potential in your organization? Skip the brainstorms and go all in with an AI Hackathon! In this final installment of the Applied AI series, CMO Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf, and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao to break down why AI hackathons might be your best tool for driving adoption, sparking collaboration, and building lasting impact. Whether you're a tech startup or a professional services firm, this episode gives you the blueprint. Special guest Jeff Gallimore, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer of Excella, shares best practices from their GenAI-focused hackathons—including how engaging clients as judges and building cross-functional teams helped move ideas from prototype to production. From enabling constraints to cultural buy-in, Jeff explains how hackathons can be more than just a creative break—they can be a launchpad for real outcomes. Courtney, David, and Mohan reflect on their own hackathon experiences and offer strategic advice on making hackathons successful—from aligning with your roadmap to ensuring outputs are built to scale. Plus, how non-engineers can thrive in AI innovation thanks to tools like Canva and prompt engineering. All that PLUS Pete Buer breaks down the rise and fall (and jailbreak) of the Humane AI Pin. The big lesson? Innovation only sticks if it meets the market where it is. Whether you're running your first hackathon or looking to level up your next one, this episode is packed with practical tips, real stories, and a bit of good-natured competition. Want to see what Knownwell's platform can do with your data? Visit www.knownwell.com to get started.  Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Gu2jq1Ol_Z0  Show notes Connect with Jeff Gallimore on LinkedIn Learn more about Excella Connect with David DeWolf on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Baker on LinkedIn Connect with Mohan Rao on LinkedIn Connect with Pete Buer on LinkedIn Watch a guided Knownwell demo Follow Knownwell on LinkedIn

AI Knowhow
Applied AI: Reframing How We Think About AI

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 33:09


Still think of AI as just a chatbot? It's time to reframe that mindset. Logan Kilpatrick of Google DeepMind joins the show to discuss the latest advances with Gemini, including long-context reasoning and native multimodal capabilities—and why UX, not chat, is the real frontier in AI. He shares examples from Khan Academy and others that show how smarter, more human-centered experiences are key to unlocking AI's full potential. Logan and Mohan Rao also explore why it's such an exciting time to be working in AI, with developers making groundbreaking discoveries daily, and how the next wave of AI in services businesses has so much promise, as we shift from real-time answers to asynchronous, reasoning-driven systems with humans in the loop. Next, CMO Courtney Baker teams up with CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao to look at why, in the AI age, leaders need to think differently about how to deliver value with concepts like learning systems, compounding intelligence, and more.  They also join Logan in challenging the chatbot-centric mental model that many may hold about AI because it has been our introductory experience to the technology. They explore why simply deploying chat interfaces isn't the future—and why UX is key to making AI work for real business outcomes. Plus, Pete Buer breaks down Anthropic's $61B valuation from their latest funding round and looks at how businesses should evaluate LLMs for fit and function, not just from what they read in the latest headlines. Ready to stop having long, text-based discussions with a chatbot and start building smarter AI experiences? Us too.  Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4wHs_V96afE  Check out Knownwell's AI-native platform and see how your business can thrive in the new era: Knownwell.com Show Notes:  Connect with Logan Kilpatrick on LinkedIn Read the LinkedIn post about Mercor that David, Mohan, and Courtney discuss Learn more about Google DeepMind Learn more about Google AI Studio Connect with David DeWolf on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Baker on LinkedIn Connect with Mohan Rao on LinkedIn Connect with Pete Buer on LinkedIn Watch a guided Knownwell demo Follow Knownwell on LinkedIn  

The SaaS CFO
KnownWell Raises $6M to Help Service Businesses Retain and Grow Customers

The SaaS CFO

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 25:52


In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray is joined once again by David DeWolf, the President and CEO of KnownWell. David, a seasoned entrepreneur and former software engineer, dives into his transition from building a successful consulting firm to founding KnownWell, a company that's making strides in the realm of commercial intelligence for professional service businesses. His passionate journey from zero to nearly $200 million in revenue, and his focus on digital product development, set the stage for this insightful conversation. David shares updates on KnownWell's significant milestones, including their recent $4 million seed round, driven by unexpected commercial demand and market traction. With a mission to harness relationship data to empower service firms, KnownWell is making waves in the industry by offering innovative solutions that target operational challenges using AI. David's strategic approach to aligning with the right investors and the importance of cultural fit shines through as he discusses the company's ongoing growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving SaaS landscape as David highlights the company's roadmap toward product market fit and their focus on scaling effectively. He reveals how KnownWell is leveraging thought leadership and a dedicated podcast to generate inbound leads and strengthen customer relationships. Don't miss this episode for a deeper understanding of how David and his team are navigating the complex world of SaaS, exploring new opportunities, and striving to build a platform for the AI era. Show Notes: 00:00 Journey from Engineer to Entrepreneur 04:47 Outsourcing Challenges in Finance 08:28 Strategic Growth and Efficiency Planning 10:57 Pioneering AI Business Solutions 13:57 Surging Commercial Demand Strains Capacity 16:35 "Cultural Fit Matters Most" 19:26 Ambitious AI Firm Launch Strategy 23:31 Strategic Roadmap for Business Success 25:50 Enjoyable Experience, Thank You Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/knownwell-raises-4-million-in-seed-round David DeWolf's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddewolf/ Knownwell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/knownwell/ Knownwell's Website: https://knownwell.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

AI Knowhow
Would You Rather...? (AI Edition)

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 33:31


Would you rather trust an AI decision-making system that's 90% accurate but a total black box, or one that's only 70% accurate but fully explainable? What about AI that predicts your next big revenue stream with 30% certainty versus AI that boosts your operations by 70%? In this special 75th episode of AI Knowhow, we put our panel to the test in an AI-themed game of Would You Rather? Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao for a lively debate on AI trade-offs in business. From decision-making transparency to revenue growth strategies, our team digs into real-world applications of AI and what business leaders should prioritize. Plus, NordLight CEO Pete Buer introduces a brand-new segment, This Is Your Brain on AI, where we explore Microsoft's latest study on AI reliance and its impact on critical thinking. Are we outsourcing too much of our problem-solving to AI? What should HR and L&D teams be doing to counteract potential skill atrophy? And don't miss our special guest, Abhijit Mitra, CEO of Outreach.io, who sits down with Pete to discuss agentic AI and how Outreach is revolutionizing B2B sales with AI-powered prospecting. Can AI automate the grunt work of sales reps while still keeping the human touch? Abhijit shares his vision for the future of AI agents in business. Try Knownwell's platform today at knownwell.com. Tags: #AI #AIinBusiness #AgenticAI #MachineLearning #ArtificialIntelligence #B2BSales #CriticalThinking #BusinessGrowth #SalesTech #Automation #HR #Leadership #Technology #FutureOfWork #AIProspecting

Value Inspiration Podcast
#352 - David DeWolf, CEO of Knownwell on when NOT to scale

Value Inspiration Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 53:59


This podcast interview focuses on the critical decisions that define successful scaling. My guest is David DeWolf, CEO of Knownwell. After growing Three Pillar Global to 2000 employees across nine countries, David learned that sometimes the best way to scale is to deliberately slow down. During COVID, he made the bold choice to retain all employees despite revenue decline - a decision that led to tripling the business within a year. Now with Knownwell, he's applying these scaling lessons to build an AI company with intention, starting with 500 customer interviews before writing a single line of code. Their mission: To help professional services firms prevent "surprise churn” by elevating human relationships and experiences. And this inspired me, and hence I invited David to my podcast. We explore what it really takes to build an AI company that elevates rather than replaces human relationships. His approach challenges conventional wisdom about scaling, product development, and leadership - drawing from lessons that helped him grow his previous company from startup to 2000 employees and survive multiple market crises. But what's most fascinating is how he's applying these insights to tackle one of the biggest pain points in professional services: the struggle to see relationship problems before they become relationship crises. Here's a quote from David: We had an inbound lead that found us through the podcast and ended up signing a rather large contract before we even not only wrote a line of code, but before we had an engineer on staff. By listening to this podcast you will learn: How to secure major contracts before writing a single line of code (and why this might be smarter than building first) Why CEOs should never delegate customer relationships, even when scaling rapidly How staking your brand position before having a product can accelerate your go-to-market strategy Why implementing lightweight business systems early gives you an unfair advantage in scaling For more information about the guest from this week: David DeWolf Website: knownwell.com   Subscribe to the Daily SaaS Reflection Get my free, 1 min daily reflection on shaping a B2B SaaS business no one can ignore. Subscribe here. Yes, it's actually daily. And yes, people actually stay subscribed. (Just see what peer B2B SaaS CEOs say) My promise: It's short. To the point. Inspiring. And valuable.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI Knowhow
AI Hot Takes (2025 Edition)

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2025 31:59


We're turning up the heat once again! After last year's sizzling Hot Takes episode, we had to run it back for 2025. Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product & Technology Officer Mohan Rao to deliver their boldest AI predictions yet. What shifts are coming in AI? Which trends are about to fizzle out? And what might shake up the industry in unexpected ways? In our expert interview segment, Pete Buer sits down with AI and digital transformation expert Dr. Henna Karna, a Harvard Fellow and former Google executive. She shares practical strategies for business leaders to ensure AI is solving real problems and not just creating new ones. From cost concerns to strategic adoption, Dr. Karna explains how companies can maximize AI's potential without getting caught up in the hype. Grab your milk, ice cream, or (according to Mohan) hot chocolate—this one's gonna be on fire! www.knownwell.com  Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0ST1zZV4MNU  Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Setting the Stage for 2025 Predictions 02:18 First Hot Take: The End of AI-Powered Marketing 04:00 Second Hot Take: Data is Dead 06:40 Third Hot Take: The Decline of Open Source Models 08:41 Fourth Hot Take: OpenAI's Impending Implosion 13:47 Google's Edge in AI Integration 16:32 AI in Business Strategy 17:09 Interview with Dr. Henna Karna 18:38 AI's Role in Strategic Planning 24:08 Cost and AI Adoption 26:41 Customer-Centric AI Solutions 29:57 Conclusion and Future of AI Show Notes  Connect with Dr. Henna Karna on LinkedIn Connect with David DeWolf on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Baker on LinkedIn Connect with Mohan Rao on LinkedIn Connect with Pete Buer on LinkedIn Watch a guided Knownwell demo Follow Knownwell on LinkedIn

AI Knowhow
Applied AI: Turning Data Into Actionable Insights

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2025 33:44


Data is pouring into your business every second, but where are the insights you need to act on it? Just 27% of business executives in a recent Forrester study said their data and analytics projects produce actionable insights.  In this episode, we look at how AI can help bridge the gap between the overwhelming amounts of data available today and the actionable intelligence executives need to drive results. Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker, CEO David DeWolf, and Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohan Rao kick things off by breaking down the journey from raw data to wisdom. They discuss why 60-70% of enterprise data goes unanalyzed and how leaders can leverage AI to surface hidden insights, not just confirm what they already know. Plus, they explain why vision is critical: if you don't know what you're looking for, your AI won't either. For our expert interview, Pete Buer sits down with Arman Eshraghi, CEO of Qrvey, to discuss how SaaS companies can embed analytics into their products, empowering customers with self-serve insights. Arman shares practical advice for SaaS leaders on turning data into a competitive advantage, plus a sneak peek of Knownwell's own Mohan Rao's recent appearance on Arman's SaaS Scaled podcast. All of that PLUS another installment of AI in the Wild with Pete Buer. Pete and Courtney dive into OpenAI's new deep research tool—an AI agent that might actually live up to the hype, according to Casey Newton of Platformer. Learn why it could revolutionize market research and competitive analysis but why it's also best suited for those with a foundational understanding of the topic at hand. Want to turn your business data into clear, actionable insights? Visit knownwell.com to learn more about the Knownwell platform. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gNEMu_uLvGE  Show Notes & Related Links Connect with Arman Eshraghi on LinkedIn Connect with David DeWolf on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Baker on LinkedIn Connect with Mohan Rao on LinkedIn Connect with Pete Buer on LinkedIn Watch a guided Knownwell demo Read The Human Impact of Data Literacy from Accenture, which includes a number of stats cited in the episode Follow Knownwell on LinkedIn Tags: #AI #DataAnalytics #BusinessIntelligence #AIinBusiness #EmbeddedAnalytics #DataInsights #SaaS #AIforExecutives #CustomerInsights #DataStrategy #EnterpriseAI #OpenAI #DeepResearch #AIApplications #BusinessGrowth

AI Knowhow
Applied AI: Developing Your AI Roadmap

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 29:10


What does an AI roadmap really look like? And how does a corporate AI roadmap differ from a personal one? In this episode of AI Knowhow from Knownwell, host Courtney Baker is joined by Knownwell's CEO David DeWolf, Chief Product & Technology Officer Mohan Rao, and NordLight CEO Pete Buer to break it all down. First, the team explores how business leaders can chart a clear AI strategy—starting with vision, linking it to business goals, and balancing customer feedback with long-term objectives. David and Mohan share insights on making micro-pivots, avoiding roadmap confusion, and the key decision every company must make: Is AI a tool, or is it your operating system? Special guest Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek, author of Your AI Roadmap, sits down with Pete to discuss how professionals can future-proof their careers with an AI strategy of their own. She shares why a strong personal brand, multiple income streams, and financial security are essential in the AI era and how workers can position themselves for long-term success. And in AI in the Wild, Courtney and Pete dig into AI-designed shoes. A new shoe combines AI-driven custom fitting with personalized footwear, raising big questions about AI's role in design, manufacturing, and consumer trends. Is it just a gimmick or a glimpse of AI-powered retail to come? Sign up for Knownwell's AI-powered platform for Commercial Intelligence: www.knownwell.com  Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/FbmzNS1KV_0 

AI Knowhow
Scaling AI: Building the Right AI Team

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 33:21


You're smart. You know your business. But do you know how to build the right AI team? It's harder than it looks, and the old playbook won't cut it. In this episode, host Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf, Chief Product & Technology Officer Mohan Rao, and NordLight CEO Pete Buer to break down the key differences between AI innovation teams and traditional ones. Plus, we ask the real questions—does Amazon's famous “two-pizza rule” still apply in the AI era? And if so, can we all agree at least one should be supreme? But first, we dive into what might be the most game-changing week in AI since ChatGPT launched. With Producer Will Sherlin stepping in to help, Pete Buer unpacks the frenzy around DeepSeek's new open-source AI model. How did this Chinese startup manage to train a cutting-edge model at a fraction of the cost of Meta's? And why does this mark a "Sputnik moment" for AI development? From business leaders to investors, the ripple effects could be massive. Finally, Pete sits down with Ben Hafele, CEO of Lean Startup and host of The Lean AI Podcast, to discuss how to assemble the right AI team. They explore what skill sets are essential, how to balance technical and strategic talent, and why AI teams need a different structure than traditional innovation groups. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sHmj55qkYR0  Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com 

AI Knowhow
Scaling AI: How AI Can 10X Your Business

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2025 31:37


What if AI could reduce a three-month project to just three days? In this episode, Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker explores how AI is reshaping professional services with the help of CEO David DeWolf, CPO Mohan Rao, and NordLight CEO Pete Buer. Pete sits down with Matt Pasienski, CEO and co-founder of Pact, to discuss AI's evolution from simple tools to intelligent copilots and the rise of autonomous agents. Matt shares insights from his journey as a services CEO and how Pact is building AI-driven project management copilots. They dive into the implications of AI on management, accountability, and value chain variability, including how copilots can surface risks, identify new opportunities, and transform business operations. Later, the panel dissects Matt's takeaways, reflecting on the balance between efficiency and effectiveness in AI adoption and the cultural challenges of integrating AI at scale. They also explore how leadership can act as the "agent core" to navigate the mismatches that arise when parts of the organization move 10x faster. In the AI in the Wild segment, Pete and Courtney discuss Ai-Da, the humanoid robot artist whose painting of Alan Turing recently sold for $1.1 million at auction (NYT gift article). The work Ai-Da is capable of producing, and the team it took to create her, challenges our assumptions about creativity and AI's role in art and innovation. Ready to stop losing clients and surprise churn? Visit Knownwell.com to learn how our tools can help professional service firms transform customer retention.

Changing The Sales Game
Unlocking Sales Growth with AI with David DeWolf (episode 209)

Changing The Sales Game

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 38:57


“The future of sales is to serve, not sell. Generative AI gives us guidance that's so personal and precise, we're always presenting the most relevant solutions — no pushing required.” — Marcus Chan. Today, I am excited for my guest and me to discuss how AI-powered commercial intelligence can transform sales by providing actionable insights that enhance conversions and boost customer retention. We will explore practical strategies for leveraging AI to optimize the sales pipeline, personalize customer engagement, and make data-driven decisions that elevate revenue and streamline sales operations. You will see how AI can be a game-changer for sustainable sales growth and a competitive advantage in today's market.   YouTube: https://youtu.be/h6OFdg9VwxQ   About David DeWolf: David is the founder and CEO of Knownwell, specializing in AI-powered commercial intelligence solutions. With over 16 years of leadership at 3Pillar Global, David grew the company to more than 2,000 workers and made the Inc. 5000 list ten times. He now leads Knownwell, where he empowers businesses to harness AI for smarter decision-making, optimized sales strategies, and sustainable growth, transforming how organizations operate in today's competitive landscape.   How to Get In Touch with  David DeWolf: Email: mailto:knownwell@knownwell.com Website:   https://knownwell.com/ Free Gift - 3 months free: Knownwell.com/demo     Stalk me online! LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/conniewhitman   Subscribe to the Changing the Sales Game Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming service or YouTube.  New episodes post every week - listen to Connie dive into new sales and business topics or problems you may have in your business.

AI Knowhow
4 AI Strategies and Tactics to Deploy in 2025

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2024 31:03


What AI strategies and tactics should you prioritize in 2025? And how can executives inspire their teams to embrace AI? In this episode, Knownwell's Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf, Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao, and NordLight CEO Pete Buer to outline four key AI strategies every leader needs: adopting an AI-first mindset, fostering human-AI collaboration, leveraging predictive analytics, and prioritizing user experience in AI tools. David, Mohan, and Courtney share actionable insights for embedding AI into your organization's workflows. Special guest Christian Madsbjerg, author and co-founder of the Human Activity Research Laboratory, joins Pete to discuss putting humans at the center of AI efforts. From longitudinal studies in Brazil to reshaping relationships with technology, Christian reveals why balancing innovation with human impact is critical as AI evolves. Ready to power your company's success in 2025? Visit Knownwell.com to sign up for our beta waitlist. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MuHZMsXxuv4   

AI Knowhow
How LLMs Actually Work

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2024 35:12


Ever wondered what really powers LLMs like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini? In this episode, Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao are joined by John Fowler (Knownwell's Chief Science Officer) and Ramsri Goutham Golla (Lead Data Scientist) to break down the mechanics of large language models (LLMs) in ways that are accessible and relevant for all professionals, not just data scientists. John and Ramsri help explain how LLMs predict the next word in a sentence, what makes them so powerful, and the role of neural networks and attention mechanisms. They also dive into real-world applications, such as retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and how it's replacing fine-tuning for more efficient and reliable AI performance. Ready to harness AI for your business? Learn how Knownwell's AI-powered platform can empower you to stay ahead at Knownwell.com. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/l1S3GGyo_o8  Show Notes & Related Links Watch a guided Knownwell demo Read "Here's what's really going on inside an LLM's neural network" in ArsTechnica Read the "Attention Is All You Need" research paper from a number of leaders at Google that's referenced in the episode Connect with Ramsri Goutham Golla on LinkedIn Connect with John Fowler on LinkedIn Connect with David DeWolf on LinkedIn Connect with Mohan Rao on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Baker on LinkedIn Follow Knownwell on LinkedIn

AI Knowhow
Making Decisions at the Speed of AI

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 34:05


Can a simple update to a 75-year-old decision-making framework give your business an edge with AI? To answer that, Knownwell CMO Courtney Baker, CEO David DeWolf, and CPO/CTO Mohan Rao discuss enhancing the classic OODA (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) loop with a new step: "Inspect." They explain how "Inspect" can empower companies to evaluate, learn, and refine decision processes in the age of automation, with real-world examples such as autonomous vehicles and medical AI applications. Check out www.knownwell.com/OODAI to download your own copy of the OODAI Loop.  Also, Michael Harnum of ESG Success shares insights on how AI is helping tech firms scale customer success without massive personnel increases. Michael illustrates how digital customer success tools, like automated monthly reviews and even virtual customer success managers, enable companies to nurture a broad customer base efficiently. All that PLUS Pete joins Courtney for AI in the Wild, diving into Ernst & Young's $1.4 billion investment in an in-house AI platform that now supports 96% of their workforce. Known as "Client Zero," this pioneering system is boosting operational efficiency and enhancing customer service—serving as a testing ground before client deployment. Make sure to check out www.knownwell.com/demo to get a look at Knownwell's AI-powered platform for commercial intelligence. 

AI Knowhow
The AI Transformation Mandate, Part II

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 39:36


As AI continues to revolutionize industries, why are so few organizations prepared with AI policies and procedures? And what role should HR leaders play in this transformation? In this second part of AI Knowhow from Knownwell, Chief Strategy Officer Pete Buer and CEO David DeWolf pick up their conversation about AI transformation in middle-market professional service companies. They dive deep into the strategic role HR should play in the next 18-36 months, advising that HR must be involved from the beginning to influence talent management, strategy, and change management. David shares a fascinating story about using ChatGPT to draft Knownwell's first OKRs in under an hour, showcasing the practical impact of AI in leadership decision-making. We also hear from Tamarah Usher of Slalom, who explains how they're enabling enterprise-wide AI transformation and scaling AI-driven innovations across their teams. HR's readiness, she explains, is pivotal to navigating the fast-moving skills gap and workforce adaptation. Don't forget to check out Knownwell's AI Transformation Readiness Assessment to see how prepared your organization is for this new era: www.knownwell.com/assessment. Also, be sure to check out Nordlight at www.thenordlight.com.  Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QjxMJRX8OAc  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
Inside the Knownwell Beta

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2024 31:44


Ever wondered how AI can transform commercial intelligence? This week, Knownwell's CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao dive into the release of their AI-powered platform for commercial intelligence, now in private beta. They explore how this technology helps professional service firms improve client satisfaction and prevent surprise churn. David and Mohan kick off with exciting news about Knownwell's recent $4 million seed round, which will accelerate product development. Mohan shares the breakthroughs that have led to the latest beta product, highlighting major improvements in user experience, scoring insights using LLMs, and the platform's real-time unstructured data analysis capabilities. Together, they unpack the complexities of integrating AI into commercial operations and why early customers are already seeing transformative results. Later, Courtney Baker and Pete Buer join the show for another AI in the Wild, discussing how JPMorgan Chase is equipping 140,000 workers with generative AI tools, projecting $2 billion in value through productivity gains and cost savings. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tNFjRrCLjgM  Sign up to see Knownwell in action: https://knownwell.com/demo/   

AI Knowhow
The Coming Wave of Ambient AI

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2024 31:58


What if AI could anticipate your needs without you even having to ask? This episode explores the emerging world of ambient AI and how it will revolutionize business operations. First, Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao discuss the shift from AI as a tool you go to, to AI that seamlessly blends into your day-to-day activities—delivering insights and taking actions in real time, all without prompting. Later, Pete Buer talks with AI and innovation keynote speaker Dan Chuparkoff about why AI is like a piñata, bursting with potential once you break through the surface. Dan shares his insights on how AI will fundamentally change teamwork, decision-making, and even personal productivity, revealing new layers of efficiency. Also, in a brand new segment, Pete and Courtney dive into Canva's bold move to raise prices by 300% with the introduction of new AI features. Will this strategy help or hinder its market dominance? Tune in to find out how AI is reshaping the tools we rely on and what it means for your business. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OcLjuyu3Mdk  Make sure to get the exciting news from Knownwell at www.knownwell.com.    

AI Knowhow
AI-Native vs. AI-Infused Products

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2024 33:03


With AI seemingly everywhere, how can you distinguish between true AI-native products and AI-infused ones? In this episode,Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao clarify the differences between AI-native products built from the ground up and AI-infused products that simply incorporate AI features. They explore how this distinction impacts business decisions and what to look for when considering tech solutions for future-proofing and innovation. Later, Pete Buer sits down with special guest Peter Armaly, a partner at Valuize and author of Mastering Customer Success. They discuss how AI is revolutionizing customer success management and its role in predicting customer behavior, aiding decision-making, and increasing customer retention. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tm0C4AawmfY  Ready to reimagine your business with AI? Visit www.Knownwell.com.  

AI Knowhow
Where's the VC Money Going in AI?

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2024 33:53


In the second quarter of 2024, a staggering $24 billion in venture capital flowed into AI startups. But where exactly is all that money going, and what does it signify for businesses navigating the AI landscape? Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao break down the three major categories where AI investment is focused: vertical AI applications, horizontal AI applications, and AI development infrastructure. David and Mohan highlight why business leaders should care about this surge in funding, emphasizing how it signals the next wave of AI innovation and practical ROI for companies that strategically invest. Also, James O'Brien, co-founder of Ducky.AI, shares insights into how his AI-powered customer support platform is transforming knowledge management in businesses and explains how AI is augmenting—not replacing—human tasks. All of that PLUS another edition of AI in the Wild! Pete Buer discusses a major partnership between Accenture and Google Cloud, exploring how their joint efforts in generative AI and cybersecurity could inspire confidence in skeptics of AI's ROI timeline. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UKKMD0C7ekw Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com

AI Knowhow
One Year Later: Looking At What's Changed in AI & Business

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2024 29:44


Can you believe it's been a year? AI Knowhow is celebrating its first anniversary, and we're marking the occasion by taking a nostalgic look back at an incredible year of AI insights and innovations.  In this special anniversary episode, host Courtney Baker is joined by Knownwell's CEO, David DeWolf, and Chief Product Officer, Mohan Rao, to reflect on the episodes, surprises, and even debates that made the past year so memorable. The trio delves into the unexpected twists in AI's evolution, from the powerful impact of generative AI on software development to the surprising lack of enterprise-wide AI orchestration. Courtney challenges David and Mohan to share what surprised them the most in the AI landscape over the last year. Later, Pete Buer joins with a fascinating "What Is Your Flavor?" segment, revealing how AI is revolutionizing the alcohol industry. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/K9mMhAhEtxQ Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
The Path to AGI and the Business Altitudes of AI

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 36:54


Can OpenAI's "Five Steps to Artificial General Intelligence" (AGI) be applied to business strategy? We think so—and we're ready to break it down for you. Courtney Baker is joined by David DeWolf and Mohan Rao to delve into OpenAI's recently unveiled five-step roadmap to AGI and compare it with Knownwell's own five altitudes of AI in business. Are we really just at the tip of the spear with AI or are we closer to significant business transformation than we think? Pete Buer speaks with Blake Morgan, customer experience futurist and author of "The Eight Laws of Customer-Focused Leadership." Blake and Pete discuss how AI is transforming customer interactions and what businesses need to do to stay ahead in this evolving landscape. All that PLUS Courtney and Pete take a look back at some of the most impactful guest interviews from the past year, with Pete sharing the conversation that left a lasting impression on him. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zqE5GUvHj9g  Visit Knownwell's website to learn more: www.knownwell.com 

AI Knowhow
How to Sell AI to the Rest of Your Company

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 35:30


How do you sell AI across a company with a diverse workforce—ranging from the skeptical finance team to the enthusiastic Gen Z in HR? In this episode of AI Knowhow from Knownwell, CMO Courtney Baker is joined by CEO David DeWolf and Chief Technology & Product Officer Mohan Rao to discuss strategies for getting everyone on board with AI, even those resistant to change. First, they dive into the challenges of driving AI adoption, sharing insights on how to identify champions, showcase early wins, and frame new AI initiatives as low-risk experiments. Then, Chief Strategy Officer Pete Buer speaks with Philipp Mueller, Chief Analyst and Product Officer at Outsell, who shares his expertise on overcoming resistance within organizations and driving meaningful AI adoption. In our AI in the Wild segment, we explore the inspiring story of U.S. Representative Jennifer Wexton, who, after losing her voice to a neurological disorder, uses AI to regain it—showcasing AI's transformative power in personal and professional lives. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e6zFS5diz1Y  Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com  

AI Knowhow
What You Need to Know About AI to Use it Effectively

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2024 31:53


Do you need to understand backpropagation, K-means clustering, or hyperparameter tuning to lead an AI transformation in your business? Probably not. So, what should you focus on instead? In this episode, David DeWolf and Mohan Rao explore how to think strategically about AI adoption, from identifying your company's pain points to deciding whether to build or buy AI solutions. They also discuss the critical role business leaders play in driving AI projects, emphasizing the importance of focusing on business outcomes rather than getting lost in the technology. Later in the episode, Pete Buer sits down with Aby Varma, a global marketing leader, to talk about AI-native products and what executives need to know to stay competitive. Varma shares insights on leveraging AI for content at scale and discusses the future of marketing technology, including the rise of AI agents and tech consolidation. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/K-Luk7Eg3SY  Register for the Marketing Roundtable: www.knownwell.com/marketingroundtable  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
Client Retention and the Performance Economy

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2024 37:14


In the evolving landscape of AI, professional service companies face a critical juncture: productize or risk being left behind. But what does it mean to productize services in an AI-driven economy? Join Knownwell's Chief Marketing Officer, Courtney Baker, CEO David DeWolf, Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao, and Chief Strategy Officer Pete Buer as they explore why now is the time for service companies to rethink their models and embrace AI to enhance value and efficiency. Mohan and David delve into the shift from a growth-focused economy to a performance economy and discuss how this shift is pushing professional service firms towards more scalable, productized offerings. They tackle tough questions: Is this shift leading to a race to the bottom, or can AI offer a path to greater differentiation and value? Special guest Dr. Shea Azulai, a cognitive neuroscientist, joins Pete Buer for an insightful conversation on what non-technical executives need to understand about AI. Dr. Azulai shares his expertise on the distinctions between human cognition and AI capabilities, highlighting where AI excels and where human intuition and strategic thinking still reign supreme. All that, PLUS the July AI Wrap-up! Courtney recaps the latest developments in the AI world, including Meta's release of LLaMA 3.1 and the surging investment in AI startups amidst growing skepticism about AI's ROI. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MrDKhNV54TE  Find out more about Knownwell: www.knownwell.com   

AI Knowhow
Using AI to Solve Your Commercial Intelligence Problem

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2024 33:19


How can businesses ensure customer satisfaction in economic relationships? How can they continually elevate the value they bring? And what if AI could fortify your company's foundational strengths? The answer lies in commercial intelligence. Courtney Baker is joined by Knownwell's CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao. They dive into the transformative potential of AI in solving commercial intelligence problems, highlighting how AI can enhance and augment business processes to sustain and grow economic relationships, making companies more profitable and client-centric. Special guest Dr. Andy Workman, Provost at Widener University, shares insights with Chief Strategy Officer Pete Buer on what business leaders can learn from the challenging economics of running colleges and universities. He discusses how AI can tackle issues like stagnant revenue, high labor costs, and increased competition, drawing parallels between the higher education sector and the corporate world. In our AI in the Wild segment, we introduce Knownwell's Lead Data Scientist, Ramsri Golla, who developed an AI model featured in the Google I/O keynote. Ramsri explains how he and Ravi Theja Desetty trained a model on 15 different Indic languages, showcasing the incredible potential of AI in breaking language barriers and enhancing communication. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/M0RYC3HQMY4  Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

Category Visionaries
David DeWolf, CEO & President of Knownwell: $2 Million Raised to Build the Future of Commercial Intelligence

Category Visionaries

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2024 31:25


Welcome to another episode of Category Visionaries — the show that explores GTM stories from tech's most innovative B2B founders. In today's episode, we're speaking with David DeWolf, CEO & President of Knownwell, a commercial intelligence platform that's raised $2 Million in funding. Here are the most interesting points from our conversation: Accidental Entrepreneur: David's journey began as a software engineer who accidentally transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding his first company, Three Pillar, which grew to 2,500 employees. Leadership Philosophy: David emphasizes the importance of genuinely caring for his team while making tough decisions, creating a balance that fosters loyalty and respect. Growth and Acquisition: David's approach to scaling Three Pillar involved six acquisitions, highlighting the strategic growth and integration of complementary businesses. AI and the Future: Fascinated by AI, David's new venture, Knownwell, focuses on applying AI to improve business operations and commercial relationships, aiming to create an intelligent operating system for enterprises. Customer-Centric Development: David stresses the importance of genuine curiosity in customer conversations, using insights to guide product development and ensure alignment with market needs. Thought Leadership: Knownwell's launch included a podcast to establish thought leadership in enterprise AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of first-mover advantage in a new market category.   //   Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io   The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co  

AI Knowhow
AI & The Future of Work

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2024 33:57


Steve Jobs once called the computer the “bicycle for the mind." What should we call AI? The Ferrari? Fighter jet? Maybe even the flying car? In this episode, host Courtney Baker, along with Knownwell's CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao, dive into the transformative power of AI and its impact on the future of work.  Our panel discusses the exciting yet daunting concept of AI as a second brain and the ethical considerations that come with it. How will AI elevate human potential and reshape the workplace? David and Mohan share their insights on balancing human creativity with AI's capabilities, ensuring we don't lose the human touch in this technological revolution. Special guest Naeem Ishaq, CFO of Checkr, joins Pete Buer to shed light on how AI is changing hiring practices and the roles companies are seeking in this new era. Naeem explains how Checkr leverages AI to streamline background checks and ensure fairness, significantly impacting the hiring landscape. All that PLUS... another segment of Pete/CounterPete. This time the Petes tackle the provocative statement: “AI is coming for all our jobs.” They explore the potential and limitations of AI in the workforce, with insights from World Economic Forum data predicting a dynamic shift in job roles. Download the new client retention playbook with three proven strategies to retain customers at Knownwell.com/playbook. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eRecbE8BBYY  Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com.  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
The Rise of the Chief Experience Officer?

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 31:11


Customer acquisition costs are rising, and marketing budgets remain flat. But does that mean fewer customers? Not if the Chief Experience Officer and AI have a say. In this episode, CMO Courtney Baker is joined by Knownwell's CEO David DeWolf and Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao. They delve into how AI is transforming customer growth strategies, discussing why AI is crucial for proactive customer success and personalized experiences at scale. They also explore the emerging importance of the Chief Experience Officer in this AI-driven landscape. Our special guest, Daniel Salvato from NewSpring Capital, sits down with Pete Buer to share how NewSpring's portfolio companies leverage AI to drive growth, from content creation to data visualization and personalized customer outreach. Daniel reveals how mid-market companies can now compete with larger enterprises thanks to accessible AI tools. In our segment AI in the Wild, Pete discusses the latest news from Apple, including how the revamped Siri is setting the stage for broader AI adoption and user comfort across all devices. Download the latest playbook from Knownwell's Chief Strategy Officer, Pete Buer, on incorporating AI into client retention strategies at Knownwell.com/playbook. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9Gt2QJ3mERM  Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
Everything Executives Need to Know About AI

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2024 33:36


What are the most critical things for executives to know about AI? How can leaders stay current on all the most impactful developments in this space when it's moving at the speed of light? Join host Courtney Baker and Knownwell's top executives—CEO David DeWolf, Chief Product Officer Mohan Rao, and Chief Strategy Officer Pete Er—as they delve into the essential AI knowledge every leader needs.  They revisit the concept of building an AI-literate leadership team and expand on creating an AI-ready culture across the entire company. Discover strategies for fostering a culture of innovation from both the top-down and bottom-up, balancing executive sponsorship with grassroots experimentation. Sharon McCarthy, an expert in behavioral science who has worked with brands like Taco Bell, Kraft, and Discovery Channel, joins us to explore the intersection of AI and human behavior. She shares how AI can accelerate decision-making and cultural transformation within organizations, leveraging behavioral science principles to overcome common obstacles. All that PLUS a thought-provoking new segment, Pete/Counterpete, where Pete debates himself on whether AI will disrupt and transform entire industries as the digital revolution did. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mgxp01fDT_U  Sign up for Knownwell's beta: www.knownwell.com  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

The SaaS CFO
$2M Pre-seed Round to Implement Enterprise AI in B2B Services Businesses

The SaaS CFO

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2024 22:22


Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have David DeWolf, President and CEO of Knownwell, join us. David shares his incredible journey from being an engineer to founding and scaling Three Pillar Global, a digital product development company, to nearly $200 million in revenue with 2,500 employees worldwide. After taking a brief hiatus, David launched his latest venture, Knownwell, in September 2023. Knownwell is diving headfirst into the enterprise AI space, focusing on revolutionizing how B2B service companies institutionalize client intelligence to drive growth and retention. Tune in as David provides fascinating insights into his entrepreneurial journey, including the challenges and triumphs of starting a new business, the intricacies of customer-driven development, and valuable advice on raising pre-seed capital. Whether you're a SaaS founder or just curious about the evolving landscape of AI in business, you won't want to miss this conversation. Show Notes: 00:00 Former engineer turned successful digital product entrepreneur. 03:49 Targeting middle market with potential for reinvention. 07:23 Market needs customer-driven execution, enterprise AI focus. 09:47 Professional services struggle with client intelligence, churn. 12:48 Seizing opportunity, filled coffers for enterprise AI. 15:51 Raising capital without product, validating market need. 20:19 Created roadmap, focusing on marketing metrics and pipeline. 22:12 AI understands, David shares experiences. Appreciative. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/knownwell-closes-2-million-in-pre-seed-round David DeWolf's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddewolf/ Knownwell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/knownwell/ Knownwell's Website: https://knownwell.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

AI Knowhow
Separating AI Hype from AI Hope

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2024 32:36


Is AI poised to solve all of humanity's problems or are we headed for a tech-driven catastrophe?  In this episode of AI Knowhow, we dive into the polarizing world of AI hysteria to separate the hype from the hope.  Courtney, David, and Mohan break down where AI has been overhyped and where genuine hope lies. They discuss the foundational models in AI, the future of AI hardware, and the realistic applications of generative AI. David also shares insights on the potential of AI to transform enterprise operations, focusing on collaboration and knowledge management, while Mohan explores how AI can create hyper-personalized experiences for users. Later, Geoff Livingston, founder of Cognitive Path and host of the No-Brainer podcast, joins Pete Buer to discuss the current state of AI in marketing and beyond. They highlight the integration of generative AI with machine learning and analytics, and how this blend could drive real enterprise value. All of that PLUS this episode kicks off with a new segment, "Take a Lap, David" revisiting one of David's Hot Takes from a few months back.  Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P9lNra1PH7A  Remember to sign up for the roundtable discussion with David DeWolf, CEO of Tercera Chris Barbin, and Founding Partner of DCM Insights Ted McKenna. They're hosting a round table with leaders of Professional Services companies to discuss client retention in the AI era. You don't want to miss this! You can sign up today at Knownwell.com/roundtable. AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
AI for All: Getting the Benefits of AI to Main Street

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2024 28:00


How can we ensure that employees, not just Wall Street, benefit from the productivity and efficiency gains of AI? And which one of us at Knownwell has very strong feelings about why a shift to a 32-hour work week would actually be a bad thing? To help us answer these questions, this episode starts with a lively discussion between Knownwell's Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao. They debate a recent bill proposed in the US Senate that suggests AI productivity gains should enable a 32-hour work week (as opposed to the traditional 40). Spoiler alert: There is no consensus on this idea among our panelists. Following that, Pete Buer speaks with Dr. Mfon Akpan, an assistant professor of accounting at Methodist University. They explore how AI is specifically impacting accounting practitioners and educational programs. All of this PLUS Pete and Courtney discuss the Rabbit R1 device that Pete purchased and still hasn't received, in our latest edition of 'AI in the Wild'." Sign up to be part of Knownwell's beta at www.knownwell.com. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XxgMGD9EeIc  AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell. 

Modern CTO with Joel Beasley
Bridging the Gap Between Humans, Business Outcomes and AI with David DeWolf, Founder & CEO of Knownwell

Modern CTO with Joel Beasley

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2024 42:27


Today we're talking to David DeWolf, Founder & CEO of Knownwell. We discuss the impacts and takeaways of David's silent retreat, the perils that business leaders are facing with AI, and how he's helping to solve these problems with a human-centered vision. All of this right here, right now, on the Modern CTO Podcast!  To learn more about Knownwell, check out their website here. Have feedback about the show? Let us know here. Produced by ProSeries Media. For booking inquiries, email booking@proseriesmedia.com

Entrepreneurs on Fire
5 Altitudes of AI in Business with David DeWolf

Entrepreneurs on Fire

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2024 23:16


David DeWolf is the founder and CEO of Knownwell, an innovative startup that is reimagining the way organizations are run in the era of AI. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Achieving success can be a formidable task without a basis in prayer. 2. AI, the most transformative technology, can either diminish or enhance humanity. 3. Commit to spending dedicated time each week, around 15 minutes, to read and listen to AI-related content, ensuring you stay well-informed about the technology. Check out and see the path to exponential profit growth - Known Well Sponsors HubSpot With the HubSpot for Startups program, you can save 30-90 percent on a platform that scales right along with you. To see if you're eligible to join the HubSpot for Startups program and take your growth to the next level, visit HubSpot.com/startups Ziprecruiter Let ZipRecruiter help you conquer the biggest hiring challenge. finding qualified candidates. Just go to this exclusive web address right now to try ZipRecruiter for free. ZipRecruiter.com/fire NetSuite Download NetSuite's popular KPI Checklist absolutely free - designed to give you consistently excellent performance - at NetSuite.com/fire

Alexa Entrepreneurs On Fire
5 Altitudes of AI in Business with David DeWolf

Alexa Entrepreneurs On Fire

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2024 23:16


David DeWolf is the founder and CEO of Knownwell, an innovative startup that is reimagining the way organizations are run in the era of AI. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Achieving success can be a formidable task without a basis in prayer. 2. AI, the most transformative technology, can either diminish or enhance humanity. 3. Commit to spending dedicated time each week, around 15 minutes, to read and listen to AI-related content, ensuring you stay well-informed about the technology. Check out and see the path to exponential profit growth - Known Well Sponsors HubSpot With the HubSpot for Startups program, you can save 30-90 percent on a platform that scales right along with you. To see if you're eligible to join the HubSpot for Startups program and take your growth to the next level, visit HubSpot.com/startups Ziprecruiter Let ZipRecruiter help you conquer the biggest hiring challenge. finding qualified candidates. Just go to this exclusive web address right now to try ZipRecruiter for free. ZipRecruiter.com/fire NetSuite Download NetSuite's popular KPI Checklist absolutely free - designed to give you consistently excellent performance - at NetSuite.com/fire

AI Knowhow
How AI Will Change Cross-Functional Work

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2024 32:48


Knownwell CEO David DeWolf likes to point out that 80% of our workday is consumed by cross-functional collaboration. In this episode, we explore the impact that AI will have not only on how we spend our time at the office but also on who we work with and how we collaborate. Courtney Baker leads a panel with David DeWolf and Mohan Rao on AI's impact on cross-functional collaboration, talent acquisition, and knowledge management. After that, Pete Buer speaks with Brill Media's Robert Brill about how his company uses AI for some of their work with clients. All that AND this week's news. This week, Courtney and Pete explore the growth in AI talent jobs and JPMorgan's AI-aided cashflow model that can cut work by 90%. Read our new whitepaper: Unlocking the Power of AI: A Guide to Assessing Readiness for Business Transformation Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/ AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
Our Hottest Takes on the Future of Business & AI

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2024 39:35


In a special (and very spicy) episode, the C-Suite team at Knownwell gets together to share their personal favorite hot takes about AI in the business world. Which of the FAANG stocks does David DeWolf think will see a decline? What percentage of AI transformation projects does Pete Buer believe will ultimately fail? How many winners and losers does Mohan Rao foresee emerging in our new AI age? How much time does Courtney Baker predict AI will actually save us in 2024? And, in perhaps the spiciest take of all, what are Google's Gemini's thoughts on all of this? If you have thoughts on any of these hot takes, please share your comments over on the YouTube version of this episode: https://youtu.be/J-aGDhhy1go  Read our new whitepaper: Unlocking the Power of AI: A Guide to Assessing Readiness for Business Transformation Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/ AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.  

AI Knowhow
Breaking Down the State of Generative AI in 2024

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2024 31:48


Developers using an AI copilot can now write code more than two times faster those who don't use AI assistance. Multimodal AI will soon become so commonplace that it essentially becomes table stakes. And there's a rapidly growing wave of AI companionship among younger generations as statistics show we're in the midst of a loneliness epidemic in the US. How should business leaders look at these trends and the many more that are covered in CB Insights' exhaustive report on 2024 generative AI predictions? Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao dive into this meaty, 112-page report and help listeners make sense of some of the stats and trends it covers. Chief Strategy Officer Pete Buer also talks with Praveen Narra, CEO of Tech.US, about how his organization is using AI to help companies completely reinvent their business models—and how you can do the same. All of that PLUS Courtney and Pete review the week in AI and Business news. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KUwW2BGPFk0  Read our new whitepaper: Unlocking the Power of AI: A Guide to Assessing Readiness for Business Transformation Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/ AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
How to Make AI the Ultimate Multiplier for Your Business

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2024 28:54


As a leader in your organization, you need to understand a simple point: AI can exponentially enhance operationall efficiency which, in turn, will boost productivity, increase profits, and foster innovation.  If you're not sure how to get started in using AI within your own company, then this is the episode for you. Knownwell's Courtney Baker, David DeWolf, and Mohan Rao talk about how AI can be the ultimate multiplier in your organization. They also reflect on how we can apply the lessons of past technological revolutions to this moment.  After that, Pete Buer speaks with 3Pillar's Pankaj Chawla about the difference between "everyday" AI and "game-changing" AI. Pankaj provides practical advice for businesses embarking on their AI journey, emphasizing the importance of starting with manageable projects and developing a robust data infrastructure. And, of course, we've got the latest in AI Business news with Courtney and Pete. This week they explore what Google's newly-rebranded Gemini means for the AI space and Pete hands out some awards for his favorite AI-themed Super Bowl commercials. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/piJ9MrxFLfk  Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/ AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
What Does an AI-Enabled Company Look Like?

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 31:52


What makes an AI-enabled company different from companies that aren't yet using AI? What benefits do leaders stand to gain if they do enable their business with AI? David DeWolf, Mohan Rao, and Courtney Baker discuss the possibilities and responsibilities of an AI-enabled business.  Then, Dmitry Shapiro, CEO of YouAI, joins Pete Buer to discuss his company's product, Mind Studio, and how it's democratizing access to developing AI applications. As a special treat, Courtney tells Mohan and David how they did in last week's "Guess the Number of Times AI is Mentioned During Quarterly Sales Calls" Game.  All of that PLUS the latest in AI business news with Courtney and Pete. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1uLQ3rnNDb8  Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/ AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
The AI Advantage: Redrawing the Map of Business Success

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2024 32:55


What makes harnessing the power of AI in the near term all but an imperative for executives? How is the disruption artificial intelligence is bringing about different from the digital transformation we've seen impact so many industries in the last several decades? This episode of AI Knowhow looks at the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence we've experienced in the last year and how the adoption curve from exploration to ROI seems to be even more collapsed than those in previous periods of technology disruption. David DeWolf, Mohan Rao, and Courtney Baker discuss whether we've reached the point where getting started with AI is truly a do or die proposition.  Greg Alexander, Founder of the professional services mastermind community Collective 54, joins Pete Buer to share his insights into why AI is the ultimate leveler of the playing field for boutique professional services firms.  Plus Courtney and Pete Buer talk about the latest in business and AI. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/k-4VOo5JtkU  Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/ AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

AI Knowhow
Leading Through a Professional Services AI Transformation

AI Knowhow

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2024 30:12


Which industry gets the award for the most challenging one when it comes to client retention? And how can AI help with client retention in professional services and beyond? This episode of AI Knowhow touches on those questions and more. David DeWolf, Mohan Rao, and Courtney Baker discuss the role that AI can have in helping professional services organizations A) gain a deeper understanding of all the various signals impacting and showing client satisfaction and B) help leaders keep their finger on the pulse of client satisfaction as their organizations scale from the $10M-$20M in annual revenue range to $100MM-$200MM and above. Pete Buer also talks with Matt Dixon of DCM Insights about some of his company's groundbreaking research, which found that client retention in professional services is hard and getting harder. A recent study DCM Insights conducted found that, as recently as five years ago, 76% of buyers preferred to buy again from partners or firms they'd used in the past. That percentage today has dropped to 53%, and it's expected to drop to 37% in the next five years. The big takeaway for business leaders is clear: continuing to serve clients as if we're in a business as usual environment is a recipe for eventual extinction. All that plus Courtney and Pete cover the latest news, including an overview of AI news coming out of the World Economic Forum's annual gathering in Davos and a new report from McKinsey that shows the gap between Digital and AI leaders and laggards is only growing. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mgJx7Ka993A Sign up for the Knownwell Client Intelligence beta waitlist at https://knownwell.com/client-intelligence/. AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell.

Business Accelerator
Building an AI Literate Team (from AI Knowhow)

Business Accelerator

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 29:08


Are you ready to lead your company into the future with confidence and foresight? Today, we're bringing you an episode of Knownwell's new podcast, AI Knowhow, to help you unravel all of the potential mysteries of adapting to our new AI era. First, Host Courtney Baker is joined by Knownwell executives David DeWolf and Mohan Rao to talk about how to assess your organization's readiness for AI transformation in seven distinct areas. After that, AI and cybersecurity expert Andrew DeBerry speaks with Knownwell's Pete Buer about the importance of strategic leadership and utilizing unique data in adopting AI in businesses. Andrew also talks about how important it is for companies to prioritize ethics and transparency in order to navigate upcoming AI regulations effectively.Of course, at the top of the show, we have our rapid-fire news segment. And, at the end, we'll look back to the past to understand our future. Take your free AI Readiness Assessment at https://knownwell.com/assessment.For more information on Andrew DeBerry, find him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/deberry.AI Knowhow is presented to you by the team at Knownwell. Visit www.knownwell.com for more information about how they can help you leverage the power of AI to drive profitability.For more about the podcast, visit www.knownwell.com/podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Business Accelerator
Building an AI Literate Team (from AI Knowhow)

Business Accelerator

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 29:09


Are you ready to lead your company into the future with confidence and foresight? Today, we're bringing you an episode of Knownwell's new podcast, AI Knowhow, to help you unravel all of the potential mysteries of adapting to our new AI era. First, Host Courtney Baker is joined by Knownwell executives David DeWolf and Mohan Rao to talk about how to assess your organization's readiness for AI transformation in seven distinct areas. After that, AI and cybersecurity expert Andrew DeBerry speaks with Knownwell's Pete Buer about the importance of strategic leadership and utilizing unique data in adopting AI in businesses. Andrew also talks about how important it is for companies to prioritize ethics and transparency in order to navigate upcoming AI regulations effectively.Of course, at the top of the show, we have our rapid-fire news segment. And, at the end, we'll look back to the past to understand our future. Take your free AI Readiness Assessment at https://knownwell.com/assessment.For more information on Andrew DeBerry, find him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/deberry.AI Knowhow is presented to you by the team at Knownwell. Visit www.knownwell.com for more information about how they can help you leverage the power of AI to drive profitability.For more about the podcast, visit www.knownwell.com/podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.